Zozibini was met at Mthatha's airport by hundreds of fans and was formally welcomed by dignitaries King Sabata Dalindyebo, several local district mayors, traditional leaders and praise poet Zolani Mkiva.

Nosandiso Ningiza, a woman who claimed to be Zozibini's cousin told IOL; “Almost everyone from eSidwadweni is here, we are very proud of her achievement. Look around, all the cars from our village are here; they brought the village residents here for free to come and welcome her home."

An emotional Zozibini addressed the crowd telling fans; "It is the most exciting thing for me to come back to my hometown. Although I am Miss South Africa, I belong to eSidwadweni in Tsolo. I am an Eastern Cape girl.

"To be among the people of the Eastern Cape to celebrate with them is one of the most important and enjoyable things I will ever do. My people are so warm and generous.

Of her traditional ceremony, which will see her partake in several rituals as part of the Tolo clan - including slaughtering an ox - Zozibini said; "I strongly believe in my ancestors, rituals and other traditional practices that make me the person I am. By the same token, I strongly believe in my God. I believe my ancestors believe in God."

On Monday, Zozibini and her family, alongside traditional leaders are expected to host a celebration function in her village of Sidwadweni where with gospel artists such Betusile Mcinga, Bunono, Anathi and many more are expected to perform.